Future of Prescot Cables Football Club secured with ground agreement

Knowsley Council has secured the future of Prescot Cables Football Club by completing the freehold purchase of its home ground Volair Park.

A new 99-year lease has also been granted for the club as part of the agreement, which comes after difficulties over its future at the site.

The local authority says it had been in discussions with Prescot Cables Football Club, which is a Community Interest Company, since it became apparent that the landlord was not prepared to grant a further lease over the ground.

Councillor Graham Morgan, leader of Knowsley Council, says: “Prescot Cables Football Club has been a huge part of the town since 1884 and it would have been a terrible blow if the club had to close its doors. As soon as we knew the club was experiencing difficulties over the lease, we have been in discussions with them to help find a solution.

“By securing the purchase of the ground and putting this lease agreement in place, the council has been able to help the club stay open and to remain in the heart of the Prescot community. This agreement will also give the club the opportunity to explore options to raise more revenue and to secure grant funding.

“For the council, it made absolute sense to get involved. By investing in the club we will be supporting a valuable local asset and importantly we will also recoup all of our investment, through an annual rental payment from the club.

Doug Lace, chairman of Prescot Cables Football Club, adds: “The board of directors is delighted that we have been able to sign this new lease agreement which will secure the long term future of Prescot Cables Football club here in Prescot.

“We have been playing at the ground since 1906 but we have never before had the security of a 99-year lease.

“We would like to extend our thanks to Knowsley Council for their support and their commitment to helping us to remain in the heart of the community and to continue to support local residents and the rest of the town.”